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Desired student characteristics for hand therapy clinical placements: A mixed method study
Kristin Valdes1, Jennifer Castelli1
1Occupational Therapy Department, Touro University, Henderson, Nevada, NV, Henderson, Clark county.
Summary
Hand therapy educators seek students with strong interpersonal skills, professionalism, and a drive for independent learning. Identifying these key student traits improves clinical placement matching and future site engagement.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Therapy
- Hand Therapy Education
- Clinical Education
Background:
- Matching students to clinical sites is crucial for effective training.
- Understanding educator expectations is vital for successful student placements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify specific student characteristics preferred by hand therapy clinician educators.
- To inform the student-clinical site matching process in hand therapy.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods design was employed.
- Questionnaires were distributed to American Society of Hand Therapists members.
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted for further investigation.
Main Results:
- Key desired student characteristics include strong interpersonal skills.
- A willingness for self-study and independent learning is highly valued.
- Professional behaviors and clinical reasoning were frequently cited.
Conclusions:
- Educators prefer students with interpersonal skills, self-study habits, and professionalism.
- Honesty about knowledge gaps and cultural competence are also important.
- Successful student matching can enhance future clinical placement opportunities.
